arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati: new headquarters of bergamo

‘the new headquarters of the province of bergamo’ by arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati, bergamo, italy
image courtesy of arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati

on a recent visit to the studio of milan-based practice arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati, designboom received an exclusive look at ‘the new headquarters of the province of bergamo’. sited in northern italy, the competition proposal seeks to reference and relate to the contrasting historical and industrial neighborhoods of the city.

approach
image courtesy of arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati

standing 90 meters tall, the structure is at once definitive and recognizable in the urban skyline. designed as a ‘horizontal skyscraper’, the unit is composed of two primary forms, which intersect to generate a harmonious architectural presence. established in response to their surrounding environment, the opposing linear and sinuous volumes aim to create a visual permeability and connection to the landscape.

back
image courtesy of arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati

a circular pedestal wraps around the tower at street level, both enclosing and supporting the above nine-storey structure. visually reducing the scale of the unit, the translucent podium serves as both an accessible multi-functional space – housing conference rooms, offices and a library – and a panoramic viewing deck.

one of the viewing decks
image courtesy of arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati

four rotating modules compose the porous upper volume, rising symmetrically to create and surround a series of outdoor terraces. negative voids, integrated exterior environments and a permeable facade all work to lighten the perceived mass of the monolithic structure.

in context
image courtesy of arata isozaki + andrea maffei associati

overall view of physical model
image © designboom

3/4 view
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entrance
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view of terrace on the roof of the podium
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detail of facade and structure
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view of terrace
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top view
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andrea maffei discussing elements of the design
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